Your college degree is an investment in your future. Sure, with the same amount of money, you could buy a new car or take a fancy trip, but it wouldn’t last as long or provide as much value as a degree. A new car will depreciate in value and you’ll need to get a new one in the future. The knowledge and foundation for a meaningful career you receive at CMU will last a lifetime.

Graduating in four years or less can significantly decrease the cost of your college degree. Graduating on time, or even early, lowers your housing costs and gets you into the job market sooner. Take courses online or through community colleges over the summers or even before you graduate from high school; be strategic about which classes you’re taking during the school year; and be sure to chat with an academic advisor to stay on track.

Be smart about student loans

Only borrow what you need to cover your educational expenses. Start planning and saving as early as possible to pay back your loans and cushion the blow after graduation. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or don’t know where to start, CMU has financial aid advisors that can help you make decisions about loans, navigate the application process and help you start planning to pay them back.

Choose the right school for you

Choose a school that will invest in your future. At CMU, you’re a member of our community, from the first time you step on campus to the day you walk across the stage at graduation. And with a growing network of more than 250,000 alumni, the CMU community is with you wherever you go.

During your time at CMU, you’ll gain real-world experience, make valuable lifelong connections and experience a global education. CMU graduates are successful: 89 percent of students who graduate from CMU are employed or pursuing an advanced degree within one year of graduation.